Unknown Moth

[billtils]

Spotted this when walking to the pond where the damselflies hang out. It's not the greatest shot but the subject was new to me, but I am having difficulty finding out what it is. The location is the WWT centre at Caerlaverock on the Solway.

Thanks in advance for all help in solving my puzzle.

[JohnRostron]

This looks like a Silver-ground Carpet Moth Xanthorhoe montanata. As with most of these moths, there is a fair amount of variability, but this does show the silvery base colour to the wings.

As you say, it may not be the greatest shot, but it is plenty sharp enough to identify properly. I would argue that for most natural history shots, then that is the crucial factor.

John

[Wavelength]

This is really woderfull...never seen such one so far....

[billtils]

Thanks John

[Geoff F]

The white Carpets are a bit tricky, both to photography and identify.

I agree with Silver-ground Carpet. On the rear edge of the brown cross band there is a distinctly black 'tooth'.

Maybe just a fraction over exposed on the whites but nothing serious. I tend to deliberately under expose tricky white insects/flowers by just a little then selectively add back some brightness during editing. It takes a bit of time with a masked layer or an Adjustment Brush though.

Alternatively, if you can manage it, spot meter on the white subject. But often, it is enough of a struggle just to take any photo of these nervous subjects.

[JBW]

well done we have it's cousin over here. Just a touch of under exposure might help the next time

[billtils]

Thanks everyone for your feedback on ID and, of course, the exposure issue. Here is an edited version:

Silver-ground carpet moth

[IzzieK]

Sorry I was late to this show and tell...A very pretty moth. Almost lace like.